Gilliard's honeyeater or the Bismarck honeyeater, is a bird species in the family Meliphagidae. It is the only species placed in the genus Vosea. It is endemic to New Britain. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Bismarck Archipelago
Typical Environment
Occurs in the central and eastern highlands of New Britain, primarily in subtropical to tropical moist montane forest. It uses the mid-story to canopy, moving through flowering trees, vine tangles, and epiphyte-laden branches. The species is most frequently recorded in primary forest but may also visit forest edges and older secondary growth if suitable blossoms are present. It tends to be local but can be fairly common where habitat is intact.
Altitude Range
800–1900 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Gilliard's honeyeater, also called the Bismarck honeyeater, is the sole member of the genus Vosea and is restricted to New Britain in Papua New Guinea. It frequents moist montane forests where it forages for nectar and insects among flowering trees and epiphytes. Its drab, olive-brown plumage makes it unobtrusive in dense foliage, but its liquid whistles can reveal its presence. As a highland specialist, it is less exposed to lowland habitat loss than some island congeners.
Temperament
quiet and somewhat secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through dense canopy
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, sometimes joining small mixed-species flocks when flowering is abundant. Territorial around rich nectar sources, with short chases between individuals. Nests are presumed to be cup-shaped and suspended in vegetation, as in many honeyeaters, with both parents involved in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of clear, liquid whistles interspersed with soft chups and buzzy notes. Calls are simple contact chips given while foraging and sharper scolds when agitated.
